Historic Profile: John Lind, a Swedish-born immigrant, was elected as Minnesota's 14th governor in 1899. During his lifetime John Lind was a school teacher, superintendent of Brown County schools, a New Ulm Lawyer, and land agent. John Lind was also the first Swedish-born American to be elected to the United States Congress, president of the University Board of Regents, diplomatic representative to Mexico, and Minnesota Governor. Working at the end of the nineteenth century, Lind was a part of the Progressive movement, which championed the interests of the rural and urban working classes in Minnesota in a reaction against economic and social abuses. Lind campaigned for adoption of a more equitable tax burden, enlightened concern for the sick and poor, and direct elections of state officials.